2021 Best Online Master's Programs

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The instructors are caring individuals that genuinely care about their students. I attend strictly online courses, but still feel a sense of togetherness when engaged with other students. The financial services and administrative departments at Fordham are reliable, easily accessible, and helpful.

Jill Lawrence, Class of 2018

The classes allow you to be able to freely express your opinions without being harshly criticized by the professor and encouraged open communication between classmates. The professors encourage communication with any problems, questions, and comments, with a quick reply.

Amanda, Class of 2018

Fordham University is a Jesuit research institution that offers 23 fully online master’s degrees. Graduate programs are available in global finance, strategic marketing communications, management, social work, teaching, corporate compliance, pastoral studies, and Christian Spirituality. The majority of the programs are 30 credits and can be completed in one year. One exception is the master’s degree in education, which requires 36 credits and can be completed in two years.  

Online classes at Fordham can follow either an asynchronous or synchronous format. Students in asynchronous courses will interact with classmates through discussion boards, blogs, and wikis, while synchronous learning allows students to engage with instructors and peers in real-time. Financing and aid options are available through loan programs, grants from graduate schools within the university, and payment plans. The Veterans Initiative provides aid through scholarships and the Yellow Ribbon program to veteran students. Graduate students are offered comprehensive support services, such as academic advising, field placement assistance, access to Handshake (a job and internship database), invitations to industry events, and notifications of new or trending research in their field. 

Fordham’s graduate admission requirements will vary for each program. In addition to submitting an online graduate application with fee and official transcripts, master’s programs may also require prerequisite courses, work experience, or professional certifications. 

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While UC Berkeley is known for its leading research success, the school truly invests and fosters each student's personal growth so that they can become leaders in their individual fields.

Francesca Rubino, Class of 2019

The University of California - Berkeley offers eight online master’s degree programs in information and data science, cybersecurity, and public health. The 27-credit, fully-online data science program can be taken in an accelerated, standard, or decelerated path, taking twelve, twenty, or thirty-two months, respectively. The Master’s in Public Health offers several concentrations, such as epidemiology/biostatistics and health policy and management, and can be completed twenty-seven months.

The format of online classes at Berkeley is dependent on the program. For example, the data science and cybersecurity program is synchronous and requires that students participate in weekly Zoom meetings with instructors and peers. Additionally, there is an opportunity for students to participate in an in-person immersion experience. The Master’s in Public Health program requires some on-campus components. Online coursework follows an asynchronous format. UC-Berkeley offers tuition payment plans and various program-specific fellowships, scholarships, and awards like the Dean’s Health Equity and Leadership Award. Students have access to career services through the I School, which offers support and guidance in career planning, connects students with networking opportunities, and builds resume writing and interview skills. Additionally, students can participate in career-oriented webinars and face-to-face leadership sessions. 

UC Berkeley’s online master’s degree programs have three start dates throughout the year, with applications accepted on a rolling basis. Generally, prospective graduate students must submit an online application with fee, official transcripts, statement of purpose, two professional letters of recommendation, current resume, and TOEFL score (if applicable). GRE/GMAT scores are not required. Applicants should review any additional admission requirements for their program of interest. 

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This masters program has taught me an incredible amount in the short time Ive been enrolled. There is not any wasted time and the platform software is easy to use and aids in the learning process.

Kevin Vail, Class of 2019

Northwestern University offers a total of 67 online master’s degree programs. Degrees available include a Master of Arts, Master of Science, and Master of Public Policy and Administration. Students can choose from a range of different concentrations within each of these degrees. Some of these programs are conducted entirely online, while others include in-person requirements as well. The length of time to complete a degree depends on the track chosen and the degree requirements. Some programs can be completed in six quarters of full-time study.

Northwestern University uses Canvas, an online learning management system that provides students with access to lectures, discussions, readings, and other materials they need for class. Students may also use Canvas to take quizzes and exams. Northwestern’s online master’s degree programs may require both synchronous and asynchronous learning activities. Online students in Northwestern’s graduate programs may qualify for federal loans. A limited number of scholarships are also available. Northwestern also has high job placement rates of 80 percent or more for many programs.

To be admitted to an online master’s degree program at Northwestern, students must meet general requirements, such as showing evidence of a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA. Students may also need to submit letters of recommendation, resumes, and test scores. Specific requirements vary by program. Resources available to online students at Northwestern include technical support and career services. Students are also assigned an academic advisor to provide ongoing guidance.

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Almost weekly, alumni send out emails for job openings, which has significantly helped my job outlook.

Madeleine Young, Class of 2019

The faculty members are great! They are usually willing to help student find research or work opportunities. I have received a lot of help with career development.

Lyssa, Class of 2018

Columbia University offers more than 20 online master’s degrees in computer science, engineering, social work, business, applied physics, developmental disabilities, and more. The average master’s degree student completes the program within 3.5 years. Students have up to five years to earn their degrees.

Online courses at Columbia can include both asynchronous and synchronous elements, such as live sessions through Zoom. Students will participate in discussions and take online exams and quizzes through the Courseworks learning platform offered by Canvas. Columbia provides a payment plan that allows students to pay tuition interest-free over a couple of months. As a renowned university, Columbia promotes experiential learning to prepare students for careers once they graduate. Students may participate in various professional development and leadership opportunities, including virtual sessions that focus on workplace skills, life management, communication, job search, leadership, and cultural/educational topics. 

Applicants to Columbia University Online can submit an online graduate application with fee, personal/professional statement, and official transcripts with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (3.3 for Computer Science). GRE/GMAT scores are not required. 

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The online classes were well organized, and although never meeting some of them face to face, I still got to know and work with many of my classmates.

Katryna Kevelson, Class of 2017

The professors are highly qualified and create challenging but meaningful projects. Even though the graduate program is completely online, I still feel connected to the other students in the class as I would a face to face class.

Taylor Parton, Class of 2017

Johns Hopkins University offers one of the most extensive online learning programs in the nation for graduate studies, with a total of 227 graduate degrees available. This institution offers an online Master of Arts, Master of Science, Master in Business Administration, and more. Students can also obtain dual master’s degrees. Online graduate programs at this institution require at least 30 credit hours to complete.

Johns Hopkins University’s online learning management system was developed by the institution’s Center for Technology in Education. Students participating in online programs will use this system to access lectures, readings, activities, exams, and other course materials. Programs may require synchronous activities, but many activities are asynchronous. Online students may receive federal financial aid. This institution also accepts veteran education benefits.

To be admitted to an online master’s degree program at this institution, students must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. They must also submit past transcripts with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA. Applications must be submitted online. Individual programs may have additional requirements, such as prerequisite courses. After being admitted to a program, students will have access to an academic advisor, career guidance resources, and technical support.

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Although the course is online, the amount of works is just as much if not more than if attending on campus. The program has some great professors who care deeply about their students and their success. Acceptance into the program is also a plus because the program has more than one time to apply per year, which is nice compared to the large rush usually done at the beginning of January to apply to several schools.

Hilary Herron, Class of 2018

California State University-Northridge provides students with 18 online master’s degree options. Some of the graduate degrees available include a Master of Arts, Master of Public Administration, Master of Knowledge Management, Master of Science, and Master of Social Work. This institution follows a traditional semester-based schedule, with two to three start dates throughout the year. Programs will generally require between 30 and 36 credit hours to graduate.

Students can access course materials through the Blackboard online learning management system. Learning is primarily asynchronous to allow students to complete coursework on their schedule. Classes may include lectures, videos, reading, projects, discussions, and tests. California State University offers scholarships and financing plans to qualifying students. Federal aid may also be available. Student resources include academic advising and technical support.

Admissions requirements for California State University’s online graduate programs vary. Most require that applicants have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA, and official transcripts. Resumes, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and GRE or GMAT test scores may also need to be included. Applications can be submitted online.

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The faculty are very supportive and accommodating to an educator's demanding lifestyle.

Dave E., Class of 2019

I was able to work with my graduate advisor to make the degree work for me rather than just checking off boxes for the degree.

Jenna, Class of 2017

At George Mason University, students have access to 34 online master’s degree programs. Degrees available include a Master of Science, Master of Education, Master of Arts, Master of Public Health, Master of Law, and Master of Health Administration. Most online master’s programs at this institution require 30 to 36 credit hours of study. Some programs can be completed in 11 months with full-time study.

George Mason University’s online courses are delivered via the Blackboard learning management system. Learning may be synchronous or asynchronous. Depending on the program, students may watch lectures, participate in discussions, complete lab work, take tests, or work on group projects. In some cases, online programs require occasional in-person meetings or exams. Loans, scholarships, fellowships, and other types of financial aid may be available, depending on the program.

To be admitted to an online master’s degree program through George Mason University, prospective students must submit an application online. Applicants must hold at least a bachelor’s degree and have a minimum GPA of 3.0 for undergraduate study. Individual programs may have other admissions requirements. Advising, career services, technical support, and library resources are available to support enrolled online students.

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The counselors who guided me through my degree progress were helpful. Most of the professors were approachable and genuinely wanted students to understand and succeed. The student help services were always friendly and knowledgeable about any questions I had.

MD, Class of 2020

Most faculty members are accessible, thoughtful, and interested in your work, even if you aren't their advisee.

Christina Michelon, Class of 2018

The University of Minnesota - Twin Cities offers 19 master’s degree programs for online students. Graduate degree options include a Master of Science, Master of Public Health, Master of Health Informatics, Master of Arts, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Computer Science. Multiple specialties are available for some degrees. The number of credit hours required to complete a master’s degree online ranges from 30 to 52, depending on the program.

The University of Minnesota uses Canvas to connect students with their professors and classmates. This learning management system provides access to lectures, face-to-face virtual interactions, reading materials, course activities, and exams. Students may also participate in online discussions. Learning over Canvas can be conducted synchronously or asynchronously, depending on the program requirements. Online graduate students have access to the same financial aid options as all other students, including scholarships or federal assistance.

Each online master’s degree program has different admission requirements. Applicants must show evidence of undergraduate degree completion, and a minimum GPA is often required. Applications can be submitted online, with start dates in spring, summer, and fall for most programs.

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I have learned a lot from my classmates through group discussions and projects, the professors have been very informative, and the faculty in the business school has been nothing but helpful throughout my experience.

Joseph Peragallo, Class of 2018

St. John’s University offers 25 online Master of Art, Science, Business, or Professional Studies degrees. Students can pursue graduate-level studies in business administration, accounting, library and information science, taxation, and homeland security. The majority of programs range from 30 to 69 credits and can be completed in one to two years. 

St. John’s online classes are asynchronous with set assignment deadlines and exam dates. Coursework is completed on Blackboard, where students can review lectures, post assignments, and participate in discussion boards with classmates. Students may choose to enroll in interest-free tuition payment plans. As a Yellow Ribbon school, St. John’s provides tuition benefits to veteran students. Additional resources and support are offered to students to prepare them for their careers beyond graduation. Career Services hosts the Career Peers and Johnny’s Journey programs to help students stay on track and develop career readiness skills. Studies have the opportunity for leadership development through services, workshops, mentorships, and conferences. According to St. John’s website, graduation outcomes for the Class of 2019 reflects 94.4% job placement, and 75.8% are employed in their desired field.

To apply to St. John’s graduate programs, students must have completed the necessary prerequisites before submitting an online application. Additional application requirements including submitting official transcripts with a preferred minimum GPA of 3.25, a resume, two letters of recommendation, a statement of professional goals, relevant work experience, and GMAT/GRE scores (waivers are available).

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The faculty is very knowledgeable, the classes are interesting and relevant, and the Office of Career Services is incredibly effective in preparing students for the next step in their careers.

Alex King, Class of 2018

There's a tremendous sense of kindness and genuine support but very rigorous expectations as well.

April Newton, Class of 2018

The University of Maryland’s College Park campus offers 39 online master’s programs. Degrees available include a Master of Business Administration, Master of Engineering, Master of Library and Information Science, Master of Professional Studies, Master of Public Health, and Master of Science. The number of credit hours needed varies, but most programs require a total of 36 credits.

Online master’s degree programs at the University of Maryland utilize the Canvas learning management system. All online courses are asynchronous so that students can log into their classes at their convenience. Students may be eligible for scholarships and federal financial aid. This institution also provides digital textbooks at no additional cost to make learning more affordable. Students at the University of Maryland have access to CareerQuest, which provides students with online academic advising, career services, and support. 

Graduate programs at the University of Maryland may have different admission requirements, such as prerequisite courses. However, general admission requirements include submitting an online application and submission of past transcripts. This institution does not require GMAT or GRE scores. 

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The financial aid options are not as available as one would like. Nonetheless, the faculty and staff are supportive with great experience and tools that will help you succeed in your career.

Cassandra Abelard, Class of 2018

The professors were all in the field that I was interested in and had a lot of life advice.

Elliot Morgan, Class of 2017

Seton Hall University offers 28 online master’s degree programs with options including Master of Jurisprudence, Master of Science, Master of Business Administration, Master of Arts, and Master of Law. Most of these degree programs require between 30 and 40 credit hours of study to complete. The duration will depend on whether students choose full-time or part-time study.

This Blackboard learning management system is used to deliver course content to online students. Most learning activities are completed asynchronously, allowing students the flexibility to work at their own pace. However, assignments will still have specific deadlines. Class activities may include lectures, reading, discussions, papers, and exams. Financial aid is available to online graduate students in the form of loans and graduate scholarships.

The specific graduate admissions requirements at Seton Hall University will depend on the program. However, most will require at least a bachelor’s degree and a minimum GPA. Students may also be asked to submit an online application, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and other documentation. After being admitted to a program at Seton Hall University, online students have access to career services, student coordinators, and technical support.

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You will walk out of this program with a master's degree, a lifelong network of connections, and a unique perspective only this program could produce.

Kaitlyn Fitzgerald, Class of 2017

Since being accepted there several members of the faculty and I have been in constant contact and they helped me with so many of my questions.

Morgan Davies, Class of 2017

Virginia Polytechnic University offers over 30 online master’s degree programs. Graduate students can major in these areas of study: agricultural and life sciences, information technology, engineering, foreign language, education, political science, and natural resources. The majority of the online master’s programs require 30-33 credits and do not include a residency requirement. 

The majority of online courses at Virginia Tech are asynchronous. Students can fund their education with various assistantships, scholarships, and fellowships offered by the Graduate School. Monthly payment plans are also available. The university supports students’ career development by providing multiple programs to enhance workplace skills and connect with alumni. These programs include academic and career advising, the Transformative Graduate Education Initiative, Handshake to connect students to employers, and Hokie Mentorship Connect, which connects students to alumni. 

Prospective graduate students applying to Virginia Tech must submit an online application with fee, official transcripts, and recommendation letters. The Graduate School does not require GRE or GMAT test scores. Applicants should check specific department pages to review all admission requirements. 

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The faculty are extremely helpful and supportive. In my undergrad at a different school I felt like a number and no one really cared if I graduated or not but I feel like the faculty in my program want me to succeed and are willing to work with me and be flexible so I can reach my goal.

Maren Fulbright, Class of 2019

The [faculty are] very quick to address issues and questions and work with you to continue your educational goals.

Chelsea Layman, Class of 2017

The University of Washington - Seattle offers 24 online master’s degree programs in aerospace engineering, public health, education, pharmaceutical bioengineering, and science. Several concentrations are available within each of these fields. The duration of the programs and the number of credits required varies. Some programs can be completed in as little as 18 months, while others may take three years or more. 

The University of Washington uses Canvas to facilitate its online programs. Much of the learning is asynchronous, but some programs do require synchronous courses conducted in real-time. Students in all programs may watch lectures, participate in discussions, read course materials, and take exams. Grants, loans, and scholarships are often available to online students to make learning more affordable. Veteran education benefits may also be accepted.

To be admitted to an online master’s degree program at the University of Washington, students must have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum GPA. Different programs may have varying requirements. Students may need to submit GRE scores and have completed specific prerequisite courses for some programs. Admitted students have access to supportive resources, including mental health services, IT support, and library services.

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All of my professors are personable and easily reachable by email or phone. I get a response from them within the day or the next day--this includes weekends or holiday breaks.

Hannah Nagy, Class of 2019

The instructors are extremely knowledgeable in their field (almost intimidating) and yet still very approachable. All of the instructors are invested in ensuring each student has what they need to succeed.

C. Amanda Cullipher, Class of 2017

Duke University offers 16 online master’s degree programs to prospective graduate students. The majority are Master of Science in Nursing degrees. However, the institution also offers a Master of Quantitative Management, a Master of Environmental Management, and a Master of Engineering Management. Most programs will take approximately two years of full-time study to complete.

Duke University uses the Sakai learning management system. Students can use this platform to access all course materials, as well as to communicate with instructors. Students may be asked to participate in discussions with classmates, complete papers or other projects, take exams, attend lectures, or complete readings. Specific requirements vary based on the program chosen. Duke University offers scholarships for qualifying graduate students. Loans may also be available.

Programs at Duke University have different admissions requirements depending on the field and concentration. However, all prospective online graduate students can apply online. Students must typically submit a resume, statement of purpose, transcripts, and letters of recommendation. Students have access to a range of online resources, including a career center, academic advising, tech support, and more.

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The courses have been very interactive; the professors are always available and I do not feel that I am missing out on the in-class experience. Also, I really like that my advisor is always there when I need her, she always points me in the right direction and make sure that I am taking full advantage of the services and supports offered by the university.

Channell Kirkland, Class of 2017

The academic counselors are really on top of everything. They schedule your classes, personally email your your booklist, and make sure you are on track every step of the way.

Maria Dubatto, Class of 2017

At Saint Joseph’s University, students can choose from 49 online master’s degree programs, including a Master of Science or Master of Business Administration. The program's length depends on the degree's requirements and whether students enroll in full-time or part-time study. Some programs can be completed in as little as one year, while others will require two years or even longer.

Students will use Canvas to access course materials and submit work. Classes may include videos, audio lectures, readings, discussions, papers, tests, and projects. Learning is asynchronous so that students can complete work on their time. Financial aid may be available to graduate students in the form of loans. Saint Joseph’s University offers a military tuition discount to qualifying students and reduced tuition rates to students involved with certain missions organizations.

To be admitted to the graduate programs, students must complete the online application packet. This packet includes a personal statement, a professional resume, two letters of recommendation, and official transcripts. Some programs may also require GRE or GMAT test scores. Students have access to the online Writing Center, 24/7 technical support, and the Office of Student Success and the Career Development Center.

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I was impressed by the administrative support received throughout the entire process, from application to graduation.

PaulR, Class of 2017

Norwich University operates 75 online master’s degree programs in diplomacy, history, nursing, civil engineering, and much more. The types of master’s degrees available include a Master of Science, Master of Arts, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Accounting. The length of these programs varies, with most requiring 30 to 36 credit hours to complete.

Norwich University operates an online platform to provide learning materials to students. All learning is conducted asynchronously, allowing students to log on and complete activities at their convenience. However, students must still adhere to specific deadlines. Courses typically include a combination of exams, lectures, discussions, videos, and reading. Private scholarships, Norwich scholarships, and federal loans can be used to finance an online graduate education. Students can also use military or veteran education benefits.

Graduate admission requirements include a completed online application form, a letter of intent, three references, a resume, and official transcripts. Some programs may have other specific admissions requirements as well. Once a student has been admitted to an online graduate program at Norwich, continuous support is available from academic advisors, library resources, the Online Writing Center, and the technical support staff.

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The professors are dedicated and the online learning program is demanding. The graduate student population is diverse in both ethnicity, career field, and work experience, making for a great learning environment.

ldray13, Class of 2019

The online platform is organized and quality of education for most courses are outstanding... The IT department is constantly upgrading the platform for online studies to ensure it works efficiently.

Natalie Apparicio-Farrell, Class of 2017

At the University of Massachusetts - Amherst, 21 online master’s degree programs are available, including a Master of Business Administration, Master of Education, Master of Public Health, and Master of Science. Students can choose from various specialties within each discipline. The number of credits required to complete the master’s degree program ranges from 30 to 60.

Blackboard Learn is used to connect students to their professors and course materials. Students may use this platform to watch lectures, complete assignments, and interact with peers and teachers. Students studying online at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst can receive the same financial aid as on-campus students, including loans and scholarships.

Students can apply to the graduate programs by submitting an online application. All programs require students to have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum GPA. Specific programs may have other requirements as well. Examples of additional supporting documentation include transcripts, letters of recommendation, and test scores. Students admitted to a program have access to academic advising, library services, and tech support.

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I find most of the instructors here are very caring and responsive. I don't know how much they get paid for teaching online graduate courses since most of them are working in another full-time job. But I feel most of them actually have gone above and beyond in accommodating their students.

Jay Ho, Class of 2019

The school is wonderful. Great instructor and program director who ensure students are successful. However the financial aid is not the best.

NU Student, Class of 2017

National University offers 79 online master’s degrees in various fields, including management, accountancy, business, data science, nursing, and more. Degree types available include a Master of Arts, Master of Science, Master of Business Administration and Master of Education, and a few other specialized degrees. The length of study required for each program varies. National University operates on a quarter system, and degrees may require anywhere from 40 to 60 quarter units to complete.

National University uses the Blackboard Learn system to deliver course materials to its students. Classes may require students to complete reading tasks, watch lectures, participate in class discussions, take tests, and complete projects. Federal loans and scholarships may be available to help with the cost of study. National University is a self-described “military-friendly” school that accepts veteran education benefits. Some transfer credits are also accepted. Student support services include career and internship resources, a Writing Center, a Math Center, and a Veteran Center.

National University offers rolling start dates, and most online students can begin their program any month of the year. Students can apply to master’s degree programs by completing the online application. The exact admissions requirements vary by program. 

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[Faculty] are experienced, knowledgeable, open-minded, easy to contact and receptive to students... The financial aid office is very helpful, and in addition the university offers many types of aid (grants, scholarships, loans)...

Alison Funka, Class of 2017

The University of Michigan’s Flint campus offers master’s degrees in science, applied science, and business administration. Each of these degree types offers multiple program options. For example, students can obtain a Master of Science in Nursing, Psychology, Social Work, Respiratory Therapy, or Substance Abuse Treatment and Intervention. The length of each program may vary, but many require 30 to 36 credit hours to complete.

The University of Michigan utilizes the Blackboard learning management system. Students enrolled in online programs may participate in a wide variety of activities, including audio and videocasts, online chats, discussion boards, lectures, and more. Learning may be synchronous or asynchronous, depending on the program and course chosen. Scholarships, loans, and grants are available to help with the cost of tuition for online students. UM-Flint also offers additional resources through the career center to help students with networking before and after graduation.

The exact admission requirements for students at UM-Flint depend on the program. Most programs require a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Students may also need to meet minimum GPA requirements and submit GRE scores. Applications can be submitted online. Students admitted to online programs have access to many resources through the Student Success Center, including academic advising and tutoring.

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I find the classroom setting preferable over the online only options some choose. I admire the professors and their individual attention to our classes.

Ms.Hamilton, Class of 2019

Great online program. Easy to understand and apply concepts. Excellent staff and support system.

Clifford Clift, Class of 2017

Washington State University (WSU) offers 22 online master’s degree programs, including a Master of Science, Master of Education, Master of Business Administration, and Master of Arts. These degrees are available in various fields, including education, business, agriculture, communication, engineering, and nursing. Most graduate programs require only 30 credit hours, but some require a greater time investment.

WSU currently uses Blackboard Learn to deliver online courses but will be transitioning to Canvas by 2021. Canvas will support synchronous and asynchronous course activities, including lectures, discussion boards, tests, reading, and more. Financial aid may be available to students in the form of scholarships and state or federal assistance. Resources available include career counseling, online tutoring, virtual mentors, and library services. Students at WSU are part of the institution’s Global Campus, providing valuable connections that help them succeed during and after their graduate programs.

WSU follows a traditional semester schedule, allowing students to begin most programs in fall, spring, or summer. Most master’s program admissions requirements include evidence of a bachelor’s degree, submission of past transcripts, and a completed online application. Individual programs may have other admissions requirements. 

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The program is completely online, but the faculty are always accessible. The professors are willing to help and work with each student independently.

Stephanie Petta, Class of 2017

Mercy College offers 41 online master’s degree programs in science, education, human resources management, psychology, nursing, and more. The degree types available include a Master of Science, Master of Public Administration, and Master of Arts. The number of credits required to complete a program varies, ranging anywhere from 36 to 60 credits.

Students at Mercy College will use the Blackboard learning management system to complete coursework. This system will provide access to assignments, discussions, readings, videos, and other course materials. Students may also need to take quizzes and exams. Learning is asynchronous, but students must still meet specific deadlines for assignments. Scholarships and loans may be available to help make tuition more affordable. This institution also accepts military education benefits.

All students applying to online graduate programs at Mercy College will need to submit official transcripts and a completed online application. Individual programs have additional requirements, including test scores, a personal statement, a resume, and letters of recommendation. Mercy College offers enrolled students access to the On-Demand Learning Center that provides writing and research assistance.

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I feel supported and that I have the resources to develop greatly into my future profession at this school.

Simone Khoubian, Class of 2019

California State University (CSU) at Dominguez Hills offers 15 online master’s degree programs. Three types of degrees are available: a Master of Arts, Master of Science, and Master of Public Administration. Students can pursue graduate studies in nursing, public administration, systems engineering, negotiation, and quality assurance. Within each degree, students can select from several different concentrations. The number of credit hours required to complete a program varies, with many programs requiring 30 to 36 credit hours. Start dates follow a traditional semester-based learning schedule.

CSU at Dominguez Hills uses the Blackboard online learning management system. Most coursework is completed asynchronously and may include videos, online message boards, exams, collaboration with classmates, and discussion forums. Financial aid opportunities include loans and scholarships. Financing plans may also be available for qualifying students.

Admission requirements may vary for each master’s degree program. Typically, students must show evidence of a bachelor’s degree and possess a minimum cumulative GPA. Programs may also require GRE or GMAT test scores. Applications must be submitted online. Resumes, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement are standard admission requirements. After being admitted, students can access support services through the advising team.

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Online students follow an on-campus class, which means that all the lectures, classwork and finals are exactly the same for every student... The professors are very tech-savvy and they do a good job at making the distance students feel like they are always available for questions.

Jonathan Hromalik, Class of 2019

Even though I'm not sitting in a classroom, there is a high level of involvement among students enrolled in online classes.

Molly McGowan Gorsuch, Class of 2017

Purdue University’s main campus offers 83 online master’s degrees in a range of fields. Students can obtain a master’s degree in engineering, economics, business analytics, nursing, hospitality, and much more. The number of credit hours needed to complete these programs varies; Many require only 30 credit hours to complete, while some require a more significant time investment.

Purdue University uses the Brightspace learning management system to facilitate online learning. The majority of online courses are asynchronous. Students may participate in online discussions, watch lectures, read materials, complete papers, and take tests. Group work is sometimes required. Financial aid is available and includes grants, loans, or scholarships to qualifying students. Various support sources are available through the Graduate Resource Center, which provides students with information on social networking, career services, professional memberships, and more.

Purdue University’s online master’s degree programs offer varying start dates. Most programs have at least three start dates available each year. To be admitted to an online master’s program at Purdue, students must hold a bachelor’s degree. Application requirements vary according to the specific program. For example, some programs require GRE scores, while others do not. Students may also need to provide references and show evidence that they have completed specific prerequisite courses. 

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The professors are knowledgeable, creative and accessible in the teaching of the courses.

Elizabeth, Class of 2019

The instructors are very accessible and want to make sure you're getting the most out of the program. Overall satisfied with my experience so far.

Lee, Class of 2020

Boston University offers a total of 50 online master's degree programs. Degrees available from this institution include a Master of Arts, Master of Education, Master of Law, Master of Music, Master of Science, Master of Social Work, and Master of Business Administration. A range of different specialties is available within each of these fields. For example, students can obtain a Master of Education in English, Math, Social Studies, Science, Special Education, Educational Policy, and Leadership Studies. The length of the graduate programs varies from two semesters to 24 months of study.

Boston University’s online learning management system delivers course content to students at their convenience. Learning is asynchronous, and students have access to online lectures, course materials, discussions, exams, and interactive multimedia content. Financial assistance may be available to some online students through grants, loans, and scholarships. Boston University has an extensive alumni network of more than 377,900 people.

Online programs at Boston University follow a traditional semester-based schedule. Each of these online master's programs has different admission requirements, some of which may include unique prerequisites. Students can apply to these programs online. Applicants must complete the full application, submit past transcripts, provide references, and complete other requirements to be considered. Once admitted, students will have access to various support services, including online tutoring, libraries, career development services, and technical support.